Rhodium-catalyzed olefin dimerization

Abstract

A process is disclosed for preparing functionalized linear olefins by dimerizing terminal olefins in the presence of a cationic rhodium compound. Novel rhodium compounds useful in this process are also disclosed.

We claim: 
     
       1. A compound of the formula where   L 4  is an anionic pentahapto ligand;   L 5  is a neutral 2-electron donor ligand;   R 11  is selected from the group of C 1  -C 10  alkyl; and   [X 1  ] -  is a non-coordinating anion.   
     
     
       2. A compound according to claim 1 wherein L 4  is pentamethylcyclopentadienyl, and L 5  is chosen from the group consisting of CO and trimethylphosphite. 
     
     
       3. A compound according to claim 2 wherein L 5  is trimethylphosphite and R 11  is methyl. 
     
     
       4. A compound of the formula ##STR9## where L 6  is an anionic pentahapto ligand; R 12  and R 13  are independently selected from the group consisting of C 1  -C 10  alkyl; and   [X 2  ] -  is a non-coordinating anion.   
     
     
       5. A compound according to claim 4 wherein L 6  is pentamethylcyclopentadienyl, and R 12  and R 13  are methyl.